Intrepid Journeys - Turkey and Iran (Simon Gault)

Chef Simon Gault ventures across northern Turkey and into Iran for culture, sights and food in this episode of Intrepid Journeys. Ramadan is in full swing, a holy month of fasting and prayer, which makes early breakfasts a cherished event. In Amasya, an ancient and holy Turkish city, a bathhouse (hammam) proves to be "a frightening experience". After a day of quail hunting, Gault crosses the border into Iran expecting danger, but instead meets friendly and welcoming locals — and a home-cooked feast. The food fanatic's persistence earns him a taste of illegal Iranian caviar. 

When I found out I was going to Iran, I was excited but I had this picture in my mind that it's kinda like what you see on the movies. But it's so not the case: the people are genuine, friendly — it's what us Kiwis love, is people like that.

– Presenter Simon Gault at the end of this episode

Key Cast & Crew

Kathryn Graham

Network Executive

Jane Andrews

Director, Executive Producer

Bevan Crothers

Cinematographer

Simon Gault

Presenter

Melanie Rakena

Executive Producer

Dot Kyle

Production Manager